Is Glendale expensive to live in?

Glendale is considered moderately expensive, with a cost index of 103 compared to the US average of 100. Living here costs about 3% more than the national average. The median monthly rent is $1,544, and the median household income is $70,139.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Glendale?

Using the standard 30% rent-to-income rule, you need at least $61,760/year to afford median rent in Glendale. The median household income is $70,139, giving a rent-to-income ratio of 26%. Financial experts recommend keeping rent below 30% of gross income.

What is the average rent in Glendale?

The median rent in Glendale is $1,544 per month. Housing costs score 108 against the national average of 100, meaning housing is 8% more expensive than the US average.

How does Glendale compare to the national average cost of living?

Glendale's overall cost index is 103 vs the national average of 100. Breaking it down: housing (108), food & groceries (101), transportation (98), utilities (95), and healthcare (106). Glendale is above average in most categories.

Is Glendale, Arizona a good place to live?

Glendale has a population of 253,855 and a median household income of $70,139. With a cost index of 103, it offers a higher-cost lifestyle. The rent-to-income ratio is 26%, which is within healthy financial guidelines.

What are the cheapest cities near Glendale?

To find the most affordable cities near Glendale in Arizona, use the Livably city comparison tool or browse the Arizona state page. You can compare rent, cost index, income, and affordability side by side across all tracked cities.

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Arizona

Glendale

Monthly city intelligence across housing costs, tax load, and affordability signals to help you plan your next move with clearer numbers.

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Cost index: 103

Median rent: $1,544

Median income: $70,139

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About Glendale

Living in Glendale, Arizona

Glendale, Arizona is a mid-size city with a population of approximately 253,855. The overall cost of living index sits at 103, which is near the national average of 100. This means everyday expenses — housing, groceries, transportation, and healthcare — are roughly 3% more expensive compared to the typical U.S. city.

Housing is the largest cost driver in Glendale. Median rent is $1,544 per month, while the median home price is $403,915. At a median household income of $70,139, rent consumes roughly 26% of gross income, which remains manageable relative to local incomes. The housing sub-index of 108 sits close to the national norm.

Beyond housing, healthcare is the most elevated non-shelter expense in Glendale with a sub-index of 106, while utilities is comparatively more affordable at 95. State-level taxes also shape the true cost of living: Arizona applies a 2.50% income tax rate, and property tax averages 0.51% of assessed home value. The combined sales tax rate is 8.37%. Local income tax may apply in some municipalities.

Over the past twelve months, the cost of living in Glendale has remained relatively stable. Among the 12 tracked cities in Arizona, Glendale ranks #2 from most to least affordable. Whether you're evaluating a job offer, planning a relocation, or comparing salary purchasing power, these numbers give a grounded, data-backed view of what life in Glendale actually costs.

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